In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NFL community, Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed just 30 minutes ago that the team will officially cut down to only three quarterbacks by the end of June. This bold declaration comes amid growing competition and speculation during the Steelers’ offseason activities. Notably, shortly after this announcement, Skylar Thompson – a name that has recently been linked to various quarterback conversations – made an important statement of his own, further intensifying the headlines.
Mike Tomlin’s decision, though strategic, is not entirely unexpected. With a quarterback room that has included names like Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, and Kenny Pickett in recent seasons, the Steelers have had no shortage of talent. However, the coach emphasized that maintaining depth must now come with balance and clarity for both offensive cohesion and roster management. “We need to establish rhythm and identity,” Tomlin stated firmly. “Three quarterbacks give us flexibility without compromising reps and chemistry.”
Almost simultaneously, Skylar Thompson, currently with the Miami Dolphins but rumored in trade and waiver discussions, took to social media with a cryptic but clear message. “It’s time. I’m ready for the next challenge,” Thompson wrote on X (formerly Twitter), followed by a video of him throwing in Steelers colors during a private workout. While not an official announcement, the imagery was loud and intentional. This sparked immediate speculation that he may be vying for a role in Pittsburgh – either through trade or free agency if the Dolphins release him.
Skylar Thompson’s announcement comes at an interesting juncture. The Dolphins currently have Tua Tagovailoa and Mike White ahead of him on the depth chart, and with the team reportedly shopping several backup assets, Thompson’s future in Miami has been uncertain. His public statement following Tomlin’s quarterback cut news has led insiders to believe there may be mutual interest between the Steelers and the young quarterback.
Tomlin’s QB trimming strategy is as much about preparing for the regular season as it is about avoiding the chaos of last-minute decisions. Historically, Pittsburgh has seen injuries derail quarterback rotations, and this early declaration provides clarity. Still, it leaves questions: who are the three that make the cut? While Russell Wilson seems secure as the likely Week 1 starter, the futures of Justin Fields and Mason Rudolph hang in the balance. Fields, acquired in a surprising trade from the Bears, brings athleticism and youth, while Rudolph offers system familiarity.
Should Skylar Thompson become a late addition to this race, the stakes get even higher. At 6’2″ with a strong arm and mobile instincts, Thompson fits the mold of a modern dual-threat QB – something Tomlin values. Whether this connection becomes a reality or remains speculative, one thing is clear: Thompson’s statement wasn’t random, and the timing was too perfect to ignore.
As June approaches, all eyes will be on Pittsburgh’s quarterback room. Fans, analysts, and even rival franchises will be watching to see who survives the cut, who gets the call, and who walks away. If Mike Tomlin’s past decisions are any indication, the Steelers are preparing for something bigger than just a routine QB shuffle. And with Skylar Thompson throwing his name into the mix, the drama just found its latest plot twist.